With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today.
Formerly incarcerated people speak out about forced labor; support for Prop. 6
Dominique Davis with the Anti-Recidivism Coalition spoke at a Prop 6 rally Monday.
(
Robert Garrova / LAist
)
Topline:
Several formerly incarcerated people joined state lawmakers and labor organizers in downtown Los Angeles Monday to make the case for why forced labor should be prohibited in state prisons.
Labor vs. rehabilitation: Dominique Davis with the Anti-Recidivism Coalition said she was forced to work in state prison even after she had advocated for a personal rehabilitation plan that included therapy, substance misuse treatment, and parenting classes.
“Fearful of writeups and disciplinary actions that would extend my time, I accepted the assignment although it did not fit my rehabilitation needs,” Davis said.
Support for LAist comes from
What's on the ballot: California voters will be asked to consider Proposition 6 in November. If passed, the measure would ban state prisons from forcing incarcerated people to work against their will. Many people doing work inside state prisons earn less than $1 per hour.
However, Prop. 6 would still allow incarcerated people to choose to work to earn so-called good-time credits, which could reduce the amount of time they serve behind bars.
The backstory: When California joined the United States in 1850, the state banned forced labor with one key exception: as punishment for a crime.
The Legislative Analyst’s Office estimates that about one-third of people incarcerated in state prisons work. They do jobs that keep the prisons running — like cooking and cleaning.
"People who refuse to work or do other activities can face consequences such as losing the ability to make regular phone calls," according to the Legislative Analyst's Office.
From the supporters: The push to end forced labor in California prisons comes out of the California Reparations Task Force. Assemblymember Lori Wilson, chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, called for “a comprehensive approach to dismantling the legacy of slavery and systemic racism.” Prop. 6 is seen as part of that dismantling.
From those in opposition: The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association opposes Prop. 6, citing concerns that it would burden taxpayers if incarcerated people are able to fight for higher wages.
Support for LAist comes from
At LAist, we believe in journalism without censorship and the right of a free press to speak truth to those in power. Our hard-hitting watchdog reporting on local government, climate, and the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis is trustworthy, independent and freely accessible to everyone thanks to the support of readers like you.
But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Chip in now to fund your local journalism
(
LAist
)
Trending on LAist
-
The L.A. County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday voted to declare immigration enforcement actions a local emergency. -
Tens of thousands of workers across Southern California walk out over pay and staffing issues. -
People in and around recent burn scars should be alert to the risk of debris flows. Typical October weather will be back later this week. -
Jet Propulsion Laboratory leadership says the cuts amount to 11% of the workforce. -
The rock legend joins LAist for a lookback on his career — and the next chapter of his music. -
Yes, it's controversial, but let me explain.
Best of LAist